The Dayton Metro Library and The Dayton Art Institute seek to commission site-specific artwork for the soon-to-be-renovated Wilmington-Stroop Branch Library, located at 3980 Wilmington Pike in Kettering. Proposals will be accepted June 19 through August 18, and the commissions will be announced in September.

ReImagining Works is a partnership between the Library and the DAI to acquire original artwork for each of the Library’s new or renovated locations, made possible by an anonymous bequest. Susan Anable is The Dayton Art Institute’s project manager for ReImagining Works.

“We are excited to share the latest RFP for the Wilmington-Stroop Branch, which offers four highly visible spaces for artwork including the potential for an outdoor 3-D work,” said Anable. “Since the project began in 2014, we have commissioned 32 works of art to enhance the vibrancy of our new and remodeled Dayton Metro Libraries.”

For the Wilmington-Stroop Branch, regional artists (within a 250 mile radius of Dayton, Ohio) are invited to propose newly created artwork in response to two inspirational pieces in the DAI’s permanent collection: Bold Endeavor by John Kuhn and Red Circle by Dwinell Grant. The inspirational pieces were chosen by community vote, particularly patrons of the Wilmington-Stroop Branch Library.

An informational meeting for artists is scheduled for Saturday, July 15, 11:00 a.m. at the DAI. Ruetschle Architects will be on hand to review the building plans and answer questions.

“This is a great opportunity for artists to gain a better understanding of the building space and art locations, and also see the DAI inspiration pieces in person,” said Anable, who is also available for individual phone conversation with artists on Monday, July 17 between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m.

The Wilmington-Stroop Branch Library’s extensive remodeling and expansion project has a targeted opening date of January 2019. The newly designed 21,000 square foot Library will encourage pedestrian travel, take advantage of outdoor opportunities and position the Library as a community gathering place. Amenities include a quiet reading room, dedicated teen space, a larger children’s area, study rooms, an Opportunity Space and a community meeting room accessible after-hours.

Proposed artwork should reflect the distinctive personality of this location; resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds; inspire collaboration, learning and creativity; and contribute to an inviting, engaging, stimulating environment. The ReImagining Works Committee welcomes submissions that relate to the mission of Dayton Metro Library or that may provide a springboard for educational programming or collaborative learning opportunities.

“Supporting our community of artists while making our libraries warmer and more inviting places is a win-win for our city,” said Anable. “What a great legacy for an artist to have their work on view in a public space in their hometown.”